DISCLAIMER : Joe Dawson and Duncan MacLeod belong to Davis-Panzer Productions. Richie Ryan used to belong to them. He belongs to his fans now. Fiona MacDonald belongs to me. All characters are free to return to their original owners, but they refuse to go, so I guess I'm stuck with them or now. Please do not repost this story without asking me first. Direct all comments to me.

Absolutely no permission is granted to use this story in whole or in part in another piece of writing.

Through the gloom, Fiona MacDonald could see Richie battling another Immortal. A woman stood calmly watching the battle from the other side of the adversaries. It was obvious that Richie was badly over-matched. Fiona watched horrified as Richie lost his head to an opponent she could barely make out in the dimness. Despite the power of the Quickening, Richie's killer walked deliberately towards her. Realizing she was unarmed, Fiona turned to run. Duncan and Connor MacLeod stood behind her. She tried to warn them of the other Immortal, but was unable to speak above a whisper. When she felt the cold blade of a sword against her neck, Fiona screamed.

"Fiona? Fiona?"

Duncan MacLeod gently shook the woman next to him. He had been awakened when she started flailing and mumbling in her sleep. Despite his efforts to wake her, she was still making frightened noises. Concerned, he called her name again. Her eyes fluttered open. She looked around uncertainly as if she didn't know where she was. MacLeod smiled at the innocence of her expression. He was glad she had agreed to move into the loft with him. He had hesitated to ask her. They had been apart the better part of a century.

"It was only a dream," he said reassuringly. He wrapped his arms around her.

Fiona didn't reply. She knew it was more than a dream. It was a warning. Each time she had this dream, there was more detail. She pulled Duncan closer and kissed him. Great danger approached. He might be the key to their salvation.

The next morning, Duncan reached for Fiona. Finding himself alone in his bed, he sat up. Fiona sat at the counter holding a mug in her hand. She didn't appear to be drinking from it. She seemed completely lost in thought. He padded across the room to her. She barely reacted when he kissed her neck.

"You okay?"

She shrugged. He stroked her cheek. He was enjoying having her with him again. He didn't want anything to spoil their time together.

"Is it the dream you had? Do you want to talk about it?"

"No, Duncan. Not now."

He frowned. He couldn't see why she was preoccupied with a nightmare. She was over 400 years old. It couldn't possibly be the first time she had a bad dream. He shook his head. He knew it wasn't the first time. She smiled slightly when he kissed her temple. The change in her expression made him feel a little better. He put his arms around her. She'd been taking care of him, happily preparing all his favorite foods. She'd been treating him as Chieftain. It was time he pampered her. He whispered his intent to make a quick trip to buy something special for their breakfast. She nodded, but it seemed that she was still distracted by the dream.

Dressing quickly, MacLeod left the dojo. He didn't want to leave Fiona alone too long. She seemed much too upset by her nightmare. If he came back with some of her favorites, he might be able to distract her.

Returning from his brief trip to some local stores, MacLeod entered the dojo cautiously. He could feel the presence of another Immortal. Richie had taken off a few weeks earlier and there was no indication that the younger man had returned. He smiled to himself despite his lingering anger at Fiona. He could still see the look on Richie's face when the younger man saw the Harley Fiona had purchased for him. The big, black bike was something Richie had dreamed of owning for a long time. MacLeod sighed. He wished Fiona wouldn't spoil Richie. The younger man had to learn how to work for the things he wanted. Whenever he had some time off, Richie was unable to resist the temptation of riding off on the bike. After Richie's departure, Duncan had decided to ask her to move into the loft with him. Fiona consented and he found he was happier with the arrangement than he had anticipated.

Wondering if Fiona was waiting for him inside, MacLeod smiled. If she was about to challenge him, it would signal a change in her earlier mood. She was an interesting opponent. He put his purchases down in the hallway. The blinds were drawn in the dojo. He expected it to be dark.

Drawing his sword, he kicked the door open and stepped into the dimness of the dojo. There was no sound or movement in the room, but another Immortal was definitely inside. It probably wasn't Fiona. She would have made herself known already.

"I am Duncan MacLeod of the Clan MacLeod."

"I know. I've been waiting."

Making her usual dramatic entrance, Cassandra emerged from the shadows. She quickly embraced MacLeod. As he tried to disentangle himself, the lights came on in the dojo. Standing by the stairs, Fiona looked decidedly unhappy.

"Cassandra. What a surprise."

The tone of Fiona's voice told MacLeod that Cassandra's presence was no surprise at all. Of course, the women would have sensed each other, but they could have thought it was him. Cassandra backed away from MacLeod slightly as Fiona crossed the dojo towards them.

"Winter and summer -- "

"I know. I'll do what I must," Fiona said, interrupting Cassandra. The other woman fell silent.

MacLeod wondered what Fiona meant. She sounded as though she wished she didn't know anything about whatever it was. Saying his name softly, Cassandra reached for MacLeod. Fiona's sword slashed through the air between them. Cassandra pulled her hand back as if she expected Fiona to dismember her. As Fiona moved closer to MacLeod, she stared pointedly at Cassandra.

"You still here? I thought you'd gone."

When Cassandra smiled in an attempt to attract MacLeod's attention, Fiona assumed a fighting stance. Cassandra backed away slightly.

"I'm unarmed."

"How unfortunate."

MacLeod grabbed Fiona by the arm. He didn't want her to challenge Cassandra. She turned on him angrily, trying to twist her arm from his grasp. When they looked back towards Cassandra, she had disappeared. MacLeod released Fiona.

"Stupid cow," Fiona muttered as she walked back towards the elevator. Ignoring Duncan completely, she rolled down the gate and started the elevator up towards the loft.

MacLeod was suddenly alone in the dojo. He wasn't certain what had just happened. Cassandra was unquestionably gone. He could no longer sense her. Fiona was up in the loft. He wanted to talk to her, but was uncertain about her angry, jealous reaction in the dojo. It surprised him when she drew her sword on Cassandra. Fiona didn't usually issue reckless challenges.

MacLeod retrieved his purchases from the hallway. Gritting his teeth, the Highlander walked slowly towards the elevator. He was confused by the disjointed conversation between the two women. He couldn't even guess what they had been talking about. He'd join Fiona in the loft. She hadn't seemed angry at him. Besides, he couldn't stay out of his own apartment indefinitely.

When he stepped into the loft, MacLeod had a brief moment of panic. He thought Fiona was packing her things. He calmed down when he realized the shirt she held was his. She appeared to be matching ties to it. Just why she might be doing that puzzled him.

He quickly shoved his purchases into the refrigerator. Perplexed, he retrieved a vase for the flowers he bought for her. Fiona hadn't even acknowledged his presence. He watched as she continued to select various items from his wardrobe. He was confused when she chose one of his best suits. It appeared she expected to go somewhere, but it was early in the day and they had no plans.

Although her sword was leaning against the wall near his katana, he approached Fiona cautiously. When he touched her shoulder gently, she turned towards him. Wrapping her arms around him, Fiona kissed him passionately. He allowed her to maneuver him towards the bed. This was not the reaction he expected, but he preferred it to anything else he could think of. He kissed her hard. He wanted her as much as she apparently wanted him.

Duncan lay dozing in his bed. He heard Fiona calling his name and grunted in reply. To MacLeod, it almost seemed that they were in the dingy lodgings he had taken over 350 years earlier, shortly before meeting Fiona again. It was their first meeting as Immortals. The last time he'd seen her, Fiona was still unaware of her own Immortality. They were still very young then. He had only been Immortal about 20 years. He had embarrassed himself by drawing his sword and nearly challenging her. She had simply pushed aside his blade before hugging him and asking shyly if she could stay with him. Once alone with her, MacLeod had been uncertain about making love to her. He had wanted to desperately, but she wasn't just any woman. He'd known her all his life. She had nearly been promised to him in marriage. He could almost hear his father scolding him for even thinking about kissing her. He could vividly imagine the beating he would have endured from her father. When he had finally gotten up the courage to kiss her gently, she had responded without hesitation. He found he wanted her near him all the time.

Fiona called him again. When she sat on the bed, he realized he felt the same way about her now. He wrapped one arm around her. She smelled of soap and shampoo. Her hair was still damp. He grinned. She was wearing his robe. She had her own, but seemed to prefer his. He began untying the belt. Although Fiona protested, she slid down into bed with him and kissed him hungrily.

With his head nestled against her neck and shoulder, MacLeod continued to hold Fiona long after their latest lovemaking ended. Fiona had one arm draped around his shoulders. As she trailed her fingers along his upper arm, he decided he never wanted to move again.

"Don't fall asleep, Duncan. You have to get up and take a shower."

He grunted. All he wanted to do was hold her. Fiona continued to insist he had to shower. He responded by pulling her closer to him.

"We don't have time, Duncan."

He grinned. She sounded disappointed.

"Of course we have time," he whispered, kissing the base of her throat. She squirmed against him as he covered her mouth firmly with his. Moving his hands to her breasts, he nuzzled her neck.

"Richie'll be here soon."

Duncan propped himself up on one elbow and looked down at her. Evidently, this was going to be a day of surprises and puzzles. Running her hand along his shoulder, she brought it to rest on the back of his neck. He resisted her effort to kiss him again.

"You heard from Richie?" he asked, wondering why she hadn't told him.

She shook her head. Slipping from his embrace, Fiona retrieved his robe and put it on again. Before he could question her further, they sensed another Immortal. MacLeod frowned. If it was Cassandra, Fiona would likely challenge the other woman. To be honest, the thought of being interrupted by Cassandra annoyed him. He'd rather entice Fiona back into bed.

"What's going on, Fiona?"

"That's Richie. Go take a shower, Duncan."

He wanted to ask her why she thought it was Richie and why she was so anxious for him to shower, but the elevator was on its way down to the dojo. MacLeod got out of bed and crossed the room to Fiona.

"What's going on, Fiona?" he asked again.

"Go, Duncan, unless you want Richie to see you naked," she paused and smiled at him wickedly. "Of course, I could give you back your robe. Then Richie could see me naked."

As the elevator started back up towards the loft, Fiona began untying the robe's belt. Laughing, Duncan kissed her quickly. Fiona ran her hands down his body before he retreated towards the bathroom. Wondering why Fiona didn't just wear her own robe, MacLeod stopped to get a pair of sweat pants to wear after his shower. Fiona's stare made him suddenly self-conscious about his nakedness.

"Do you mind?"

The corners of Fiona's mouth turned up in an impish grin.

"Not at all."

Laughing, MacLeod grabbed the pants and disappeared into the bathroom. Fiona watched him longingly. She wished Richie wasn't already on his way up. She'd much rather shower with Duncan.

As the elevator arrived at the loft, Richie Ryan could see into Mac's apartment through the slats of the elevator gate. A woman wearing Mac's bathrobe stood with her back to him. It was definitely Fiona. Behind her, the bed was badly rumpled. Richie heard the water start running. Mac must be in the shower. Richie was relieved he hadn't gotten in earlier. He might have walked in on something he'd rather not see. Perhaps he should have called first. He shrugged. In his excitement, the thought never occurred to him. It didn't matter now. He was already here. He pulled up the gate, calling Fiona's name. She turned towards him and smiled.

After hanging his helmet and leather jacket on the coat rack, Richie crossed the room quickly, but hesitated to embrace Fiona. Her damp hair was mussed. It was a good possibility that all she was wearing was Mac's robe. Random thoughts about Amanda flashed through his mind. Fiona dispelled his shyness by hugging and kissing him first. He grinned when she stroked his hair affectionately. Fiona wasn't Amanda. Her embrace and kiss of greeting contained no suggestiveness.

"Welcome back, Richie. How was your trip?"

"Great! I didn't meet any of us, but I did meet someone special."

Fiona tried not to react. Events were taking place as her dreams predicted. Richie chatted happily about the new woman in his life. Although she lived nearby, he met her while he was away. As he talked, he wandered into the kitchen and raided the refrigerator. Fiona watched him sadly. Much of what was about to happen would center on Richie and he would be all but inconsolable at the end -- if he wasn't dead.

"I was wondering if you and Mac could come to dinner with us tonight. I'd like you to meet her."

Although part of her mind was screaming a refusal, Fiona smiled at Richie's shy and uncertain invitation.

"Of course, Richie," Fiona said, trying to keep her voice neutral.

MacLeod came out of the bathroom drying his hair with a towel. He was slightly disconcerted when he noticed Fiona staring thoughtfully at the drawstring of his sweat pants. Grinning at her, he greeted Richie wondering how quickly he could get the younger man to leave.

"These are great, Mac!"

MacLeod realized Richie was gobbling the food he had purchased earlier as a special treat for Fiona. He was about to object, but was distracted when Fiona slipped her hand into his.

"Richie wants us to join him for dinner tonight, Duncan. He's seeing someone new."

"Sounds great," MacLeod said with a wink.

"It's not like that, Mac. Not yet, anyway."

Richie seemed embarrassed. MacLeod couldn't understand why Richie wanted the elder Immortals to meet his new flame. The younger man was usually reluctant to bring his love life to MacLeod's attention. Finishing the pastry he held in his hand, Richie glanced at his watch.

"I gotta run. I've got lots to do before tonight. Meet us at Joe's around seven?"

"Sure, Richie. I know a great place to eat. Good food. Nice atmosphere. Not bad on the wallet."

"Thanks, Mac."

Richie smiled. This was easier than he thought it would be. He was certain they'd like Lauren. She'd like them, although Fiona's sense of humor might be a little too risqué for her.

"You are planning to show up for work tomorrow, aren't you, Richie?"

The younger man's smile broadened. He had his job back. He was dating a wonderful woman. Everything seemed to be falling into place for him. Fiona retrieved her car keys from the counter and handed them to Richie.

"Take my car, Richie. It'll be better for a date than your bike. I'll come with Duncan."

Richie took the keys uncertainly. He wanted to borrow a car, but didn't know how to ask. It always spooked him when Fiona could anticipate the things he was thinking. Thanking her, Richie left the loft. After he got home, he had to unpack, do laundry, get some sleep and take a shower. He didn't want to be late for his date with Lauren.

As the sense of Richie's presence faded, Fiona turned to Duncan. Her cheerfulness seemed forced to him. He knew the look in her eyes and the set of her mouth. There was something she wasn't telling him. Something very wrong. She toyed with the drawstring of his pants.

"We do have time. We don't have to meet Richie for quite a while."

"What's going on, Fiona?"

He frowned. It seemed he asked that question repeatedly without getting any reply. He didn't get one this time either. He grabbed her hands and removed them from the drawstring before repeating his question firmly. It surprised him when she started to cry. He wrapped his arms around her and let her lean into him.

When Duncan or Connor spoke to her in that tone, only one thought occurred to Fiona. Chieftain. She didn't want to tell Duncan anything, but if he asked as Chieftain, she had no choice. She knew she had to tell him eventually. It would be unfair to leave him in the dark. This wasn't the moment she would have chosen. She took a deep breath.

"One of us is coming, Duncan. He's very powerful."

MacLeod dried her tears gently before kissing her forehead.

"Is he coming for you?" he asked, concerned. She had been off Holy Ground for quite a while now. Any number of Immortals might want to take her head. He didn't want her to leave him, but he wanted her safe above all.

She shook her head. The man would not be after her yet. There would be at least one other before her.

"He's coming for Richie."

MacLeod let go of her. Richie must have challenged the wrong Immortal during his recent trip. It wouldn't be the first time. Now, Fiona was going to try to talk him into helping the younger man. He was getting tired of coming to Richie's rescue. Richie had been Immortal long enough to stand on his own.

"What did Richie do?"

Fiona tried to slap him. He managed to grab her hands before she made contact. He thought she might start to cry again, but anger flickered in her eyes instead.

"Richie's the first. If he dies, I'll be next. You and Connor will follow."

He couldn't believe what she was saying. Although she sometimes seemed able to read his mind, this didn't sound like Fiona at all. He frowned. The day's events were starting to make sense.

"Is that why Cassandra was here?"

Fiona nodded. She disliked the other Immortal woman intensely. If Cassandra didn't stay away from Duncan, Fiona would have to challenge her.

"She's always babbling about some prophesy crap."

"She was the Witch in Donan Woods, Fiona."

Fiona snorted. The awe in Duncan's voice annoyed her. He was referring to events from their childhood. Trying to be men, Duncan and his cousin, Robert, had gone into the woods after a wolf that had been killing sheep. When a frightened Robert returned alone, all the men of the Clan MacLeod had gone into the woods to search for Duncan. It was believed the wolf had killed the Chieftain's son. In reality, Cassandra had sheltered Duncan from another Immortal, so he could later defeat that Immortal and fulfill a prophesy.

Although he sounded embarrassed about some of the details, Duncan had told Fiona all about his experience the next time they were alone. He seemed unable to stop himself. It still bothered Fiona that the woman had allowed Duncan see her naked and had kissed him on the mouth before permitting him to return to his father. She couldn't say why, but it seemed wrong to her at the time. He was only a boy of thirteen. That was nearly a man on the Highlands, but Duncan was still innocent at that age. Once she became an adult, the implications were worse. It was small comfort to her that Cassandra waited until after Duncan fulfilled the prophesy to seduce him. That didn't matter. Cassandra had no hold over Duncan. Fiona knew it bothered the other woman.

MacLeod brushed Fiona's cheek. She appeared lost in thought. He didn't want her brooding about Cassandra's appearance in the dojo. Living with her again had been much too pleasant. He'd nearly forgotten how comfortable she made him feel. It was as if he had come home after a long journey. Although he loved Amanda, Fiona rarely made him wonder what she was up to. He whispered softly to the Highland woman. He wanted her to know how much he cared for her. She smiled up at him slyly and tugged on the drawstring to his pants again.

"Winter and summer," he said, quoting Cassandra. "What was that about?"

Fiona's smile disappeared instantly. He could tell she knew exactly what Cassandra meant. She shook her head.

"Tell me, Fiona. I want to know."

"You were born on the winter solstice. I was born on the summer solstice."

"Fiona, Cassandra didn't come here to remind us to exchange birthday gifts."

Fiona sighed. The impatience was clear in Duncan's voice, but he wouldn't like what she would say next. She'd known for a long time their births linked them together. Cassandra's reference to it only confirmed the significance.

"If Richie dies, you must take my head. My Quickening may help you save yourself and Connor."

Horrified, MacLeod backed away from her. She had often asked him to take her head before The Gathering. She believed she would not survive and hoped her Quickening would help him win The Prize. He turned away so he could compose himself.

"I can nae take your head."

Fiona wrapped her arms around him from behind and rested her head against his strong back. Duncan's thickened accent revealed his emotions. She had to find a way to convince him. Richie was the first step. Connor would be the last. They could all die. If Duncan didn't take her head, the other man certainly would. She'd much rather die at the hands of someone she knew.

Feeling her against him, MacLeod thought about her request. He couldn't take the head of someone he'd known and loved since childhood. They'd just spent most of the day in each other's arms. He hadn't even bothered to open the dojo. All he wanted to do was slip his robe from her body and return her to his bed.

"We'll go to Holy Ground. Richie likes your house. Connor can join us there."

Fiona sighed. It was a wonderful suggestion. She'd love to spend time with the three men at her house on Holy Ground. It would almost be like being back on the Highlands with her Clan. Unfortunately, it wouldn't work.

"It will only delay things, Duncan, not stop them. We can't run from this."

MacLeod frowned. He didn't like the tone of this conversation. He wished she had agreed to his idea about Holy Ground.

"Then what do we do?"

"We meet Richie and his date for dinner."

There was obviously more to it than that. He felt her hands searching for the drawstring of his pants again. Holding her by the wrist, he broke away from her embrace and turned to face her.

"What do we do about this other Immortal?"

"You have to kill him before he challenges Richie."

Fiona had a way of making everything sound simple. He let go of her. Her hands instantly returned to the waist of his pants. Kissing her, he reached for the robe's belt. He wanted her again and there was plenty of time before they had to meet Richie. He'd rather have her in his arms than think about the possibility of having to kill her.

MacLeod awoke to Fiona calling his name again. He sat on the edge of the bed groggily. Insisting they had to hurry or they'd be late meeting Richie, Fiona directed him to the clothes she had selected for him earlier. He frowned remembering seeing her matching ties to one of his shirts. She had also chosen one of his silk suits.

Only partially dressed, Fiona rushed by him. He reached for her. She kissed him quickly. He tried to pull her back into bed with him.

"Stop, Duncan. We have to meet Richie."

He smiled. She sounded disappointed again. The memory of their earlier conversation returned to him. If she was right, they were all in danger. He began dressing reluctantly. The only way to meet this seemed to be head-on.

When they got to Joe's, Richie and his date were already there. The young woman was stunningly beautiful. Richie waved at them enthusiastically.

"You're staring, Duncan."

"No, I'm not," MacLeod said quickly, barely able to take his eyes off Richie's new lady friend. Repeating her previous statement, Fiona poked him hard for emphasis. He kissed her temple by way of apology.

They made their way through the crowd and joined the other couple at the bar. As Joe poured their drinks, he gestured to MacLeod. When the Highlander was standing close to him, Joe nodded towards Richie's date.

"How'd he manage that?"

"Maybe I'm a better teacher than I thought," MacLeod said, grinning at the Watcher.

Joe rolled his eyes. He should have known better than to ask MacLeod a question like that. He watched Richie give his bar stool to Fiona. Perched in Richie's place, Fiona looked back and smiled at Joe and Duncan. Maybe MacLeod was right. Joe thought Fiona easily rivaled Richie's attractive date. He knew others might not agree with him. Fiona's seductiveness was much more subtle than that of Richie's companion.

"I ever mention what a great couple you and Fiona make?"

"Yeah. You say the same thing about me and Amanda."

Shaking his head, Joe laughed. He gave the drinks to MacLeod who rejoined the others. Richie made the introductions. The foursome chatted lightly. Lauren spoke freely about herself. She was a student at a local college. She met Richie at a club while on spring break. She lived on the other side of the city from the dojo. Richie beamed the entire time she talked.

Fiona wished she could just blurt out what was about to happen, but Richie wouldn't believe her. If he did, he wouldn't thank her for the information.

Driving Fiona's car, Richie followed the older couple to the restaurant. He panicked when he saw the place Mac had chosen. Lauren would love it, but it was far beyond Richie's means. He couldn't imagine what Mac had been thinking. The man had a weird definition of inexpensive. It surprised him when he noticed the older couple holding hands as they entered the restaurant. They rarely showed that sort of affection in public.

"Dinner's on me tonight, Richie. This place was Fiona's idea," Mac whispered as they waited to be seated. Richie breathed a sigh of relief. He had been trying to calculate how long he'd have to work to pay for this meal.

As the others read their menus, MacLeod was deep in conversation with the wine steward. Soft music played in the background and a few couples wandered onto the dance floor. After ordering their food, MacLeod immediately asked Fiona to dance. He wanted her in his arms again. He smiled when she agreed readily. Obviously, she shared his feelings.

Richie watched the couple walk away. Although he sometimes wondered about Mac's success with women, Fiona was no mystery to him. It was obvious that she loved the Highlander. Richie grinned. Mac really seemed smitten with Fiona these days. He hadn't seen his mentor this happy and relaxed since before Tessa's death. Mac was smiling as he danced with Fiona. The couple seemed content in each other's arms. It was just the kind of moment Richie wanted with Lauren. Inspired by the elder Immortals, Richie asked Lauren to dance when another song began. She refused.

"I'll dance with you, Richie."

Richie turned toward the sound of Fiona's voice. She extended her hand to him. Grinning, he took it. Dancing with Fiona was always fun. They usually ended up laughing.

"He can't dance," Lauren protested.

"Oh, I know that."

Fiona led Richie to the dance floor. She would have to convince Richie to let her teach him to dance. He'd always seemed well coordinated during their training sessions. Dancing shouldn't be too difficult. He'd already improved since she first met him.

Dancing was one of many things Connor had demanded she learn long ago. He had insisted that social graces were important in order to fit in with mortal society. Although he taught her to dance himself, he had hired tutors to improve her education. She was never very good at languages, but Connor had no mercy. He refused to let her have anything unless she could ask for it in the appropriate language. He'd gone as far as knocking food and drink from her hand if she had asked for them in English. Desperate, Fiona had worked at learning the correct words so she wouldn't starve. Eventually, she realized how to get even with him. She learned how to ask for every delicacy she could think of. She added gems and precious metals to her vocabulary. Amused by the joke, Connor had indulged her for a while before putting a stop to her requests. He didn't really have to stop her. She would never have asked for more than he was willing to give her. Besides, his method had forced her to become fluent in several languages very quickly. She had also enjoyed many excellent meals and ended up with some very nice jewelry.

"So, what do you think of Lauren?" Richie asked, pulling Fiona back into the present. She smiled at him. He sounded as if he wanted her approval. When the right woman came along, she would gladly give it. Of course, he wouldn't need to ask then.

"She's very pretty, Richie."

"Yeah. Smart, too."

Richie was beaming again. Fiona thought her heart would break. She straightened his tie.

"You look very handsome tonight, Richie."

Fiona smiled when he blushed slightly at the compliment. It was the first time she had seen him in a suit. It wasn't a very good garment and it didn't fit correctly. She glanced back at Duncan seated at the table. He wore an impeccable silk suit. Someday, she'd take Richie out and buy him a properly tailored outfit. Fiona stroked his hair. Shopping for Richie would be fun -- if they survived the coming events.

Richie was glad he decided to introduce Lauren to the elder Immortals. They were the closest thing to family he had. At first he didn't want Mac to know anything about Lauren, but he realized he was increasingly thinking about telling her about his Immortality. He wouldn't do it just yet. He hadn't known her long enough, but it was a good possibility he would tell her eventually.

They returned to the table to find Duncan and Lauren involved in conversation. Duncan stood when he saw Fiona. He kissed her before she resumed her seat next to him. As they continued their conversation, a waiter appeared with their meals.

"So, Fiona, Duncan owns the dojo and Richie works for him. What do you do?"

"Oh, I just sponge off of him," Fiona replied gesturing towards MacLeod.

Fiona grinned at Duncan impishly after she put a piece of filet mignon in her mouth. MacLeod smiled at her. She was well aware that she was welcome to stay with him any time. Connor would never refuse her either. There were many times Duncan had found Fiona staying with his kinsman. It was long before Fiona's romantic involvement with the elder Highlander. As a rule, she had come to live with Connor after he had rescued Fiona from some difficult situation. Often, Fiona was keeping house for Connor while he acted as her teacher. After Connor acquired some wealth, Fiona was his pampered house guest. During those periods, Connor generally introduced her as his cousin. Sometimes, when Duncan was present, Connor referred to Fiona as his sister-in-law. She seemed to enjoy the implication of a family relationship with the men. Of course, the feeling went both ways. Fiona wouldn't refuse to help either Highlander.

Over three centuries earlier, Duncan had been traveling with Connor. Cold and hungry, neither man had much money. They hadn't eaten in days and were weary from sleeping on the cold, hard ground. A steady snowfall only added to their misery. Connor was in a particularly foul mood. Every time Duncan said anything, Connor either snapped at him or thumped him. If the younger Highlander hadn't been Immortal, he'd have been bruised and bloodied over most of his face and body.

The two men paused when they sensed another Immortal. There was a small cottage nearby. With smoke rising from the chimney, the cottage looked warm and inviting. Duncan wondered if the unknown Immortal would help them. He protested when Connor drew his sword.

"We're hungry and cold, Duncan. It's no time to be polite."

As they drew closer to the cottage, Duncan became increasingly unhappy with his kinsman's attitude, but thought better of objecting further. If he did, Connor would most certainly punch him with the hilt of his sword.

The door of the cottage opened. A soft light spilled out onto the snow. A moment later it also glinted off a sword.

"I am Fiona MacDonald of the Clan MacDonald. I have no quarrel with you."

Duncan ran towards her as Connor quickly sheathed his sword. Duncan immediately gathered Fiona into his arms. Connor pushed past the kissing couple to warm himself by the fire. Happy to see the Highland men, Fiona took them in without question. Her financial condition wasn't much better than the other two Highlanders, but she made certain they had a warm meal and a comfortable place to sleep.

The winter was bitter, but the trio had been cozy in Fiona's cottage. Duncan eventually moved from the floor in front of the fire to her bed. The two men supplemented her larder by hunting. In the spring, Connor moved on, but Duncan chose to stay with Fiona. Connor returned the following fall much wealthier than when he left. He had been successful in a business deal. Unfortunately, he had "died" shortly afterward. The isolated cottage was the perfect place for him to hide from his former associates. He shared his new found fortune with the others. The trio once again wintered together.

MacLeod's thoughts returned to the present as he ate a piece of his own steak. He smiled. He could still remember the thin soup and coarse, dry bread Fiona had given them upon their arrival. He didn't think he had ever eaten a better meal.

The foursome returned to Joe's for drinks after dinner. The older couple stood very close together at the bar. Duncan touched Fiona periodically. Richie thought Mac seemed to be reassuring himself that Fiona was with him. Fiona responded to the Highlander's actions with smiles and caresses. Richie watched the small gestures of affection pass between the couple. He longed for the same closeness with a woman. He hoped Lauren would be the one.

Lauren stiffened when he slipped his arm around her. Richie frowned. Fiona never acted that way when Mac touched her, but then Fiona hadn't grown up in the abusive atmosphere Lauren had been forced to deal with. It explained a great deal of the mixed signals Lauren gave out when they were together. Richie knew lots of kids who had survived physical and sexual abuse at the hands of their families or foster families. Richie suddenly felt lucky despite his own uncertain childhood. The worst thing he had experienced had been neglect. Richie released Lauren. He had to be more patient with her. She was beautiful and intelligent. He felt she was worth the wait.

The bar was busy and crowded. Joe and his bartender were trying hard to keep up with the orders. Fiona kissed Duncan briefly before slipping away from him and finding her way behind the bar. Joe tried to refuse her help, but she only laughed and began serving customers.

Lauren watched in amazement. She never expected the sophisticated woman to be able to serve drinks in a place like Joe's. Fiona chatted and flirted with the customers as she worked. It seemed to encourage people to buy more drinks. Lauren was impressed. The women seemed to like Fiona as much as the men. Richie and MacLeod teased the other woman as she worked. Fiona answered each of their remarks with a suggestive comment. Richie was blushing, but keeping pace with the others. Lauren sighed. She glanced at her watch and stood up. Richie immediately turned towards her.

"It's late. I have classes tomorrow."

"We're going, Mac."

Nodding absentmindedly, MacLeod sat down on the stool Lauren had been using. He was enjoying watching Fiona behind the bar. After all the centuries, she was still a saucy barmaid. Best of all, he got to take her home with him.

After Richie dropped her off, Lauren pondered the events of the evening. Richie's friends weren't what she had expected. Duncan MacLeod was unbelievably handsome. Fiona MacDonald's appearance disguised a surprisingly suggestive sense of humor. The older couple had flirted with each other outrageously throughout dinner and afterwards when the foursome returned to Joe's. Fiona had even flirted with Richie. Richie seemed embarrassed, but pleased, by the attention. It surprised Lauren that Fiona flirted with Joe Dawson, the bar's owner. The man seemed to take it with good humor and had needled MacLeod about it. Throughout it all, the flirting had an air of innocence to it. There was no question that she was with MacLeod and intended to stay that way.

Lauren shrugged. Immortals were a strange group. She wasn't certain how Dawson fit in. She didn't think he was one of them. The man had an odd tattoo on his wrist. Lauren wondered about the unusual design. She undressed and got into bed. Tomorrow promised to be a busy day. She would have many things to do.

When Richie arrived at the dojo the next morning, Fiona was working out. He watched her agile, flowing movements quietly. She seemed otherworldly somehow. Toweling himself off, Mac stood leaning against the wall on the other side of the dojo. Mac's katana and Fiona's Claymore leaned side by side near the Highlander. Richie suddenly saw the two weapons as representations of their owners.

Richie grinned. Mac looked as if he wanted to ask Fiona out, but couldn't work up the nerve. Richie started walking towards the office. He wanted to see how much Mac had gotten done on the books during his absence. Richie spun around quickly when he sensed another Immortal.

Watching Fiona intently, a woman stood in almost the same spot Richie had just occupied. She was pretty with long dark hair and large dark eyes. She seemed unaware of Richie or Mac. Fiona had stopped her routine and stood eyeing the other woman. Mac moved up to stand behind Fiona and wrapped his arm around her waist. She glanced back at him.

"Duncan, take Richie and go upstairs."

Richie had seen both Highlanders hold her that way. The gesture always looked protective to him. Richie moved closer to the pair. It seemed to him that Mac and Fiona knew this Immortal woman. If she had come to challenge Fiona, she would have to do so in front of both men. He saw a knowing smile cross Fiona's face and wondered what she was thinking.

Fiona smiled to herself. Richie always stood a little too close to her. Duncan was obviously siding with her against Cassandra. Richie unwittingly underlined the message. Fiona reached for Richie's hand. Neither man had moved towards the elevator. She needed to talk to Cassandra alone. There were things the men didn't need to know.

"Richie, take Duncan and go upstairs."

The men looked at each other and laughed. Across the room, the other woman smiled slightly.

"I haven't come for a challenge. I'm unarmed."

"You're a fool," Fiona responded.

MacLeod whispered something to Fiona. She remained silent for a few moments.

"Aye, Duncan," she said quietly.

Mac jerked his head towards the elevator. Richie followed him reluctantly. He didn't want to leave Fiona alone with the unidentified woman. There was something really strange about the confrontation. When Mac picked up his katana, Richie grabbed Fiona's Claymore and ran back to her. Taking her sword from his hand, she stroked Richie's hair affectionately. Mac called him impatiently from inside the elevator. Richie continued to watch the women as the elevator started up to the loft. They were still staring at each other.

Cassandra waited until she was certain the men would be unable to hear her. She wanted the noise of the elevator to drown out their conversation.

"You told MacLeod."

Fiona frowned. What Duncan knew or didn't know was singularly unimportant. Cassandra was wasting time.

"Only what he needed to know."

"He'll tell the boy."

Although she often did it herself, Fiona was getting tired of hearing others refer to Richie as "the boy". He was as much of a man as Duncan or Connor. He had fought and defeated other Immortals. His fighting prowess deserved recognition and respect. She sighed. When she told Duncan about the situation they were in, she knew he would eventually tell Richie. She wanted to tell the younger man herself, but never seemed to find the right moment or the right words.

"I know. I'll deal with Richie. I can get him to listen to me."

Nodding, Cassandra closed her eyes and held her hands up near her head. Fiona disliked Cassandra's melodramatics, but whatever information the other woman had might be important. Turning her sword in her hand to examine the blade, Fiona waited impatiently for the other woman to continue. Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the elevator returning to the dojo.

"That's Richie. Duncan's told him."

Fiona paused. Cassandra didn't respond. Fiona smiled when she heard the sound of heavy footsteps on the stairs.

"That will be Duncan. Say what you came to tell me."

"He's here. It's begun."

Fiona nodded. It was sooner then she expected. She was distracted by the sound of the elevator gate being raised. She was about to tell Cassandra to leave, but the other woman had already gone.

"Why didn't you tell me, Fiona?"

Fiona looked into Richie's angry blue eyes. His face was inches from her own. She'd seen him belligerent before, but he rarely directed it at her. She was hoping to avoid a confrontation like this. She would much rather discuss this calmly with the younger man.

The door to the stairway swung open and MacLeod strode into the dojo. He'd tried to explain things to Richie in a way that wouldn't set the younger man off, but Richie had taken the news badly. He didn't blame Richie. It wasn't easy to hear someone was after you and your friends neglected to tell you. He didn't want Richie to do something stupid. Fiona could be just as unforgiving as his kinsman, Connor. He didn't like the aggressive tone in Richie's voice as he spoke to Fiona. The younger man was standing dangerously close to Fiona as if he might hit her.

"Back off, Richie," Duncan said firmly.

Richie's angry glare turned on MacLeod for a moment. He couldn't believe that two people he trusted wouldn't warn him of impending danger. Richie knew Mac didn't have the answers he needed. Only Fiona seemed to have all the information.

"Stay out of this, Mac. This is between me and Fiona."

The older man continued to walk quickly across the dojo. He stopped close to the others. Richie stared intently at Fiona. MacLeod was prepared to physically separate the two Immortals if necessary. Smiling, Fiona shook her head slightly.

"Duncan, if Richie wants to challenge me, let him. But I may take something other than his head."

MacLeod glanced down when he saw Richie's eyes widen suddenly. Fiona was holding her sword against Richie's groin. MacLeod wondered why he had even thought he had to defend Fiona. She was capable of taking care of herself. Even when they were children, he tried to act as her protector, but she had often bloodied her enemy's nose before he even made a fist.

Despite his anger, Richie grinned nervously. He didn't think Fiona would actually hurt him. He hoped not, at least. He certainly had no intention of injuring her. He only wanted to know why she hadn't told him someone was coming for him. It would have been better if he hadn't yelled at her. He should have just asked.

"Uh, Fiona? I didn't upset you, did I? I really, really didn't mean to upset you."

Duncan tried not to laugh. Although he still appeared furious, Richie looked as if he might faint. If Richie wasn't careful, Fiona would keep him in that uncomfortable position all day just to teach him a lesson. MacLeod assumed a concerned expression.

"Have a heart, Fiona. He might want to use that someday."

Fiona's smile widened as she pressed her sword against the younger man's body. Richie tried to move away, but Fiona followed him. He didn't seem able to escape her. She easily anticipated his every move. He was starting to think they were doing some weird sort of dance. He stopped. If he kept moving, he would end up against the wall. Fiona would have a distinct advantage once he had nowhere else to go. He groaned inwardly. She already had more of an advantage then he wanted to think about.

"What makes you think I'm upset, Richie?"

"Uh, I don't. Why don't you tell me about this guy who's coming for me? I don't want to be . . . unprepared."

"Or gelded. Fiona, I really don't think he wants to be gelded."

The older Immortals could no longer contain themselves. As they laughed, Fiona removed the threat of her sword. Richie's anger returned immediately. He couldn't believe they were laughing when his life was in danger.

"So this is funny, huh? Some guy's gonna take my head and you think it's funny."

Richie yelped. Fiona's sword was against his groin again, but the angle was different. Richie realized she had been kidding earlier. She had only held her sword to him to shut him up. An ugly thought crossed Richie's mind. Fiona had done this before. He didn't want to think about what might have driven her to that point or what the result might have been.

Mac was talking quietly to Fiona. Richie wished he would stop. He didn't want her to lose her concentration and accidentally cut him. He could already feel the sharpness of her blade through his jeans. The wound she would inflict would be incredibly painful, even with an Immortal's healing powers. Fortunately, she seemed to be ignoring the older man. She was looking steadily into Richie's eyes.

"No, I don't think it's funny, Richie. If you die, he'll come for me next."

Richie frowned. He didn't remember Mac saying that. Either Mac didn't mention it or Richie just wasn't listening to the older man when he did. Richie couldn't honestly say he remembered much of what Mac said after telling him Fiona knew someone was after him.

"Does it help you to know, Richie?" Fiona asked softly as she withdrew her sword.

Richie shook his head. It didn't help, but something inside him wished he'd known sooner. He had the awful feeling he might have avoided this if he had known about it much earlier.

"If you sense another Immortal, come upstairs immediately, Richie. You'll be staying in the loft with us."

"No, he won't," MacLeod protested. The last thing he wanted was Richie intruding on the couple's privacy. Noticing Fiona's unhappy expression, Mac sighed. He shouldn't have spoken so quickly. If Richie stayed in the loft, he would be more protected than alone in Fiona's house.

Fiona frowned at Duncan impatiently. He was ignoring the danger they were in.

"You must defeat this man, Duncan."

"Why me, Fiona?"

"Because Connor's not here."

MacLeod pondered her response. It occurred to him that she kept listing the Immortals by age. Richie, the youngest, was first. Connor was the oldest. She always mentioned him last. Connor should intercept this challenge. Duncan would be fighting in his place.

"What if Mac loses?"

Richie was surprised by Mac's reaction to his question. Mac grabbed Fiona by the shoulders. Pushing her to the wall, he pinned her there. Richie followed them. Mac never treated women roughly. He'd seen Mac treat female opponents gently. He suddenly realized how his earlier confrontation with Fiona must have looked to Mac. Mac must have believed Richie was about to assault the Immortal woman.

When Richie got close to the couple, he looked at their faces. Mac seemed upset, not angry. Richie would have sworn the older man was about to cry. Fiona appeared startled. Richie expected her to look frightened.

"If I die, Fiona, take Richie to Holy Ground. Have Connor meet you there."

Fiona said nothing. She continued to stare into MacLeod's eyes. He turned his head slightly towards Richie. The Highlander's voice was husky when he spoke.

"Did you hear what I said, Richie?"

"Yeah, Mac, you want us to go to Holy Ground and get a hold of Connor."

Richie was confused. The actions of the older couple made no sense. He watched Fiona put her arms around Mac's neck. That made even less sense to him. He would have expected her to be trying to get away. Richie felt the tension go out of the situation.

When he felt Fiona's touch, Duncan put his arms around her and rested his head on her shoulder. He was sorry he had startled her. He merely wanted to keep her from telling Richie to take her head. He found the request more painful each time she made it. He couldn't begin to imagine how Richie would react. Fiona kissed him gently.

"We'll try to get to Holy Ground, Duncan. Connor will come, if I call him. He wouldn't abandon me."

Duncan nodded. He pulled her into a tight embrace. She had promised to follow his advice, but he understood they might not be able to escape the other Immortal. Richie might face Fiona demanding he kill to save himself and the elder MacLeod. It was a thought Duncan couldn't bear. He straightened up, but Fiona didn't let go of him. He kissed her intensely. He wanted her safe and alive. He wanted them all safe and alive.

Richie felt slightly embarrassed about watching the couple, but he couldn't resist. He wondered if it took centuries to build a relationship like the one he was witnessing. He didn't think so. Mac and Tessa had always seemed to be deeply in love. He wished Lauren would grant him even a fraction of the intimacy he wanted. He could see so much of a future for them, if only she would be less distant. Although she always seemed eager to go out with him, she barely allowed him a good-night kiss. He frowned. He had to be more patient with her. Compared to her, his childhood had been ideal.

"What about Lauren? She's in danger, isn't she?"

Fiona's arms remained draped around MacLeod's shoulders. She was looking into the older man's eyes as she answered Richie's question.

"Don't worry about her, Richie."

Richie shook his head. He had to worry about her. His Immortality was very possibly putting Lauren in danger. He hoped he wouldn't have to suddenly break off his relationship with Lauren. The thought bothered him. He didn't want to lose Lauren before he got some insight into her feelings for him. Besides, if he abandoned her suddenly, it would only deepen her insecurities.

Richie watched the elder Immortals kiss again. Their actions reawakened his nagging suspicion that something was not quite right with his relationship with the beautiful mortal. Richie sighed. Lauren didn't seem to be using him. She rarely asked him for anything. She was content with a beer and a burger in some local greasy spoon. He just wished he understood her better. Somehow her childhood didn't explain all of her reactions. Perhaps there were things too painful for her to share with him until she knew she could trust him. He had to keep his Immortality from her. He had to allow her to have her own secrets for now.

Mac smiled at Fiona. He hoped he would be able to thwart the events she and Cassandra seemed to believe were about to unfold.

"Go upstairs, Fiona. I'll help Richie open up."

"Don't be long."

She kissed him briefly before getting into the elevator. He grinned. The kiss held a lot of promise. When she started the elevator up to the loft, she winked at him and blew him an additional kiss.

Richie watched the elevator leave the dojo. He was baffled by much of what had just happened. Richie slowly began returning the dojo's equipment to its normal arrangement.

"Mac? How does Fiona know this stuff?"

MacLeod shrugged as he started helping Richie. He had no idea how Fiona knew any of this. If he did, he might know how she seemed to read his mind. He'd been trying to figure that out all of his life. She'd been doing it since they were children. He gave Richie the only answer he had ever come up with.

"She just does, Richie."

At an outdoor cafe, Lauren sat alone at a table sipping a cup of coffee. She had picked this place purposely. She wanted to be far from anywhere she was currently known. It would be obvious to anyone who saw her that she was waiting for someone special. An attractive man in his twenties approached her from behind and covered her eyes with his hands.

"Miss me?"

"Antonio! You're here."

Lauren jumped up from her seat and embraced her Immortal husband. Their brief separation seemed endless to her. She hadn't known what to think when he told her about Immortals and The Game. She'd been unhappy when Antonio told her he was over 700 years old, but he would always appear to be in his early twenties. He had assured her it didn't matter that she would continue to age. He loved her and would stay with her. He'd been generous, allowing her to pursue her education and taking her all over the world with him. Lauren had never known anyone so patient. She loved him more than she ever imagined she would be able to love.

When he explained about The Prize, she came up with a simple solution. She would help him select and defeat other Immortals. Once The Gathering was complete and he had won The Prize, he would be mortal and they could be just like any other couple. Antonio had been intrigued by her decision to pursue a degree in psychology. Because of her certainty that it would give her the knowledge she needed to manipulate their Immortal targets, he'd agreed readily. It had worked well for nearly two years now.

After Antonio had gotten the name Richie Ryan from another Quickening, Lauren set about attracting the other Immortal's attention. It had been easy. Richie eagerly pursued her, even after she convinced him that she had been abused as a child and was afraid of forming relationships. From all accounts, he had spent most of his life in foster care. She found him attractive, but he was nothing like Antonio.

She told Antonio about Richie Ryan and Duncan MacLeod. He was pleased by her news. They were the two Immortals he wanted next. After them, he thought he'd go after the Highlander's kinsman, Connor MacLeod. When she mentioned Fiona MacDonald, he was surprised, but thought the woman's Quickening might just be an unexpected bonus. The three Quickenings should prepare him to defeat the elder MacLeod on his way to winning The Prize.

After a few moments deliberation, Antonio decided that Lauren should lure Ryan to an isolated location. He would then challenge and defeat the other man. Within a few days, he would stalk Fiona MacDonald.

Richie sat in the dojo's office. The books were in pretty good shape. He felt stupid double checking Mac's numbers, but he did it anyway. It was part of the job. In a way, he enjoyed it. After some time on the road, the routine was familiar and comforting. Some of the numbers didn't quite look like Mac's. The handwriting seemed a little different, too. Richie shrugged. It was probably because he'd been away. Things always looked different to him when he returned.

A few of the regulars were out in the dojo itself. He saw an unexpected movement out of the corner of his eye and looked up. Fiona came into the office with a plate of food. Although she claimed it was only leftovers, Richie suspected she had cooked extra just to bring it to him. He didn't realize he was hungry until a delicious smell rose from the plate she set in front of him. Fiona sat down across from him. Her generosity made Richie regret his recent behavior. He'd acted like a jerk and she still treated him well. He'd done nothing to deserve her continuing kindness.

"I'm sorry, Fiona. I'm an idiot. I really didn't mean to upset you earlier."

"I know. I wouldn't have hurt you, Richie. Besides, Duncan's right. You might want to use that someday."

Richie blushed. Fiona smiled at him. She wished she could properly prepare him for the events to come. Nothing she could tell him would help. In fact, anything she said might only serve to distract him and make him an easier target.

They both turned to look out into the dojo. The few men present were greeting MacLeod as he walked by. A few asked why the dojo had been closed the previous day. MacLeod told them the boiler had broken again. They accepted it without question.

"What did you do to Richie, Fiona?" Duncan asked when he saw Richie's reddened face.

"Nothing yet, Duncan," she said and glanced at the younger man. "What would you like me to do to him?"

The younger man's color deepened immediately. He laughed when Mac rolled his eyes. MacLeod came over and kissed Fiona.

Richie looked from Mac to Fiona. He couldn't imagine her taking food from Mac to give to him. She made a face.

"Stop that, Duncan. You had three helpings." It was the Highlander's turn to look embarrassed. Fiona turned back to Richie. "Are my numbers right, Richie?"

Richie gaped at her. He thought the writing looked different, but he assumed it was just because he had been away for a while. He never imagined Fiona was helping Mac out in his absence. Mac cleared his throat, attracting Richie's attention.

"I have to go out for a while. You two going to be okay together?"

"Sure. What's up, Mac?"

"Not much. Joe called. He wants to see me about something."

Fiona frowned up at Duncan. The Watcher must have some information he wanted to give Duncan. She wondered if Joe knew the identity of the Immortal who was coming for them.

"Be careful, Duncan. Do you want me to come with you?"

MacLeod could tell from her expression that she knew there were things he wasn't saying. He wished she wasn't able to sense what he was thinking.

"Stay here with Richie. Lock up when this bunch leaves and go upstairs to wait for me."

Fiona nodded. They would be fairly secure in the loft.

"What if that woman shows up?"

"She won't hurt us, Richie."

MacLeod was surprised that Fiona would say that about Cassandra. Since they were children, she always seemed overly suspicious of Cassandra. He kissed Fiona briefly before whispering a warning to be careful. He left the dojo and headed for Joe's bar.

MacLeod entered Joe's by the back entrance. The Watcher was waiting for him. Joe had sounded serious on the phone, but MacLeod wasn't prepared for the other man's somber expression. Joe invited him to sit down as he poured each of them a drink.

"What's going on, Joe?"

Dawson frowned. He knew he shouldn't tell MacLeod anything, but the information seemed to go beyond the usual limits. He drained his glass.

"There have been rumors that a mortal has been helping an Immortal win battles."

MacLeod shrugged. It wouldn't be the first time. The Immortal in question was generally betrayed by the mortal when he or she received a better offer from another Immortal. He finished his drink and allowed Dawson to refill his glass.

"I've been getting reports that they might be moving this way. I finally got some details. There's even a picture."

Joe tossed a file on the bar in front of MacLeod. MacLeod opened it. One glance at the enclosed photo made him shudder.

"This can't be right, Joe."

"It's right, Mac. I triple checked every piece of information in that file."

MacLeod frowned. He kept hoping the things Fiona said weren't true, but the Watcher file in front of him confirmed everything. They were in serious danger. Leaving the file on the bar, MacLeod turned to leave. He wanted to talk to Fiona. He wished he had allowed her to accompany him.

"You gonna tell Fiona and Richie?"

MacLeod shook his head. He had a feeling Fiona already knew. Richie would never believe him.

MacLeod frowned when he returned to the dojo. Riding up in the elevator, he should have at least a vague sense of Richie and Fiona in the loft. He didn't. As he expected, the loft was empty when he rolled up the elevator gate. He noticed a sheet of paper on the counter. After reading it, MacLeod crumpled Fiona's note in his hand. Lauren had called wanting to see Richie urgently. Leaving explicit directions for Duncan, Fiona had accompanied the younger man to meet the woman in question. Duncan returned to the elevator quickly. He had to try to help them.

MacLeod arrived at the location described in Fiona's note and parked next to the Immortal woman's car. There was only one reason Lauren would want Richie to meet her at an abandoned warehouse. Hoping he wasn't too late, MacLeod solemnly took his katana from under the front seat. He entered the warehouse quietly. Although the lighting was dim, he could see Richie engaged in battle against another Immortal. Lauren stood watching the fight. MacLeod glanced around quickly. He frowned. He didn't see Fiona, but he thought he could sense her.

Lauren watched Antonio battling Richie. The younger man was badly wounded, but still fighting hard. She thought it was only a matter of time before he succumbed to her husband's superior abilities. She smiled. After defeating the three Immortals in this city, they would be leaving for Europe to find Connor MacLeod. She couldn't wait. She was looking forward to the trip. Antonio had promised they would go first class all the way.

Careful not to attract her attention, Duncan MacLeod emerged from the gloom behind Lauren. Holding his katana at his side, he watched Richie fighting. Things did not look good for the younger man. He frowned. He had missed his chance to challenge the other man and save Richie and the others. A sudden movement attracted his attention.

Fiona stepped out of the shadows and stood next to Lauren. Her bold and obvious action surprised MacLeod. The mortal woman turned to look at her.

"You can't interfere," she said with a smile.

Lauren turned her back on the other woman. She had to think of a new plan. She wished she had brought her gun. She could have shot the Immortal woman and let Antonio take her Quickening as soon as he finished with Richie. Then they could proceed directly to MacLeod.

"Wouldn't dream of it," Fiona whispered. To MacLeod's horror, she thrust a knife deep into Lauren's back before disappearing back into the shadows.

The woman's anguished scream brought a halt to the Immortal battle. The combatants watched her collapse to the ground. MacLeod alone stood behind her, staring down at the dying woman.

Richie wanted to shout at his mentor, but words escaped him. He stood staring at the older man and the dying young woman. He had hoped to stay with her until her mortal life ended. He didn't expect it to be this soon. Oblivious to everything but his own pain, Richie turned and ran. He didn't see his opponent race towards Lauren's body.

"You bastard, you killed my wife!"

Ignoring the sword fight beginning behind her, Fiona stayed in the shadows trying to keep pace with the younger man. When she exited the warehouse, she heard the squeal of tires and saw her car racing away from the building. She wanted to go after Richie, but a Quickening flashed behind her. She could see the few remaining lights exploding from the force. If Duncan was dead, she would try to take his killer's head before he recovered from the Quickening.

In the dim light, Fiona saw three bodies on the floor of the warehouse. One stirred slowly. Holding her Claymore in front of her, she approached the figure cautiously. Using both swords, the man struggled to stand. Fiona relaxed when she saw the silhouette.

"Fiona, where's Richie?"

"He's gone, Duncan. We have to find him."

Joe Dawson frowned. He had tried repeatedly to get in touch with MacLeod, but he kept getting the answering machine the loft. No one was picking up MacLeod's cell phone. Richie was sitting alone at the bar drinking heavily. Joe's attempts at conversation were ignored. He saw Richie become alert. Joe looked around. Fiona and MacLeod entered the bar through the back entrance.

"I've been trying to get a hold of you two. I didn't know what to do with him."

Richie sneered at the two Immortals as he refilled his glass.

"No one has to do anything with me. Least of all him."

Fiona slipped herself onto a stool next to Richie. She frowned when he turned his back on her. When she stroked his hair, he pulled away from her.

"Where did you go, Fiona? Why weren't you there? He killed Lauren. Maybe you could've stopped him."

Fiona sighed. Richie was making this very hard for himself. She understood his feelings. She'd gone through the same periods of self-delusion, self-pity and self-loathing that the younger man was currently experiencing. Unfortunately, everyone denied the obvious at some point in life. Immortals simply had more opportunities. He thought he was in love with Lauren, despite the way she behaved towards him. He had willingly blinded himself to her lack of interest in him.

"Duncan didn't kill her, Richie. I did. It was the only way to save you." Fiona paused and glanced at the Highland man she had known since her birth. "To save all of us."

Richie turned towards her. The pain in his eyes was nearly too much for her to bear. She wanted to hold him until the pain went away. Maybe she should take him to Holy Ground and help him heal. Eventually, he would understand how necessary her actions had been.

"Don't leave me, Fiona."

Startled, Fiona looked at Duncan. In all the centuries she'd known him, he'd never been able to tell what she was thinking. She'd have to stay with him. He had never sounded so lost before. She took his hand.

Richie watched the Immortal couple. They had each other. He was alone.

"I'm outta here!," Richie said, getting up unsteadily from his stool.

"No, Richie."

Richie froze when Fiona grabbed his hand. He would have sworn there was an electrical spark when she touched him. It was almost like a Quickening. He could still feel it humming through him. Convinced the effect was brought on by having too much to drink, he glanced at Mac. Richie could tell from the older man's expression that he felt it, too. Fiona was holding them both by the hand. The sensation had to be because of her.

"Let's go home, Duncan."

Cassandra stood watching the trio from the shadows. She knew she was beyond their ability to sense her. She moved closer. She could just barely sense the others. Duncan and Fiona were preoccupied with getting a drunken Richie into MacLeod's car. Cassandra frowned slightly. All her instincts had been correct. The combination of the winter and summer solstices was powerful. She hadn't realized earlier that Richie was also involved. His birth near the autumnal equinox only enhanced Fiona's powers. Cassandra melted back into the darkness. Although she was certain Fiona was unaware of the effect, it might be best for her to avoid MacLeod when he was in the company of the other woman. She knew Fiona MacDonald disliked her. Under the right circumstance, it might be possible for Fiona to interfere with Cassandra's old and well-honed powers. It was a chance the former Witch of Donan Woods didn't care to take.

Fiona stood watching Richie sleeping on Duncan's couch. She had insisted the younger man stay with them. It would be better for him if he wasn't alone. To convince Richie to come with them, she had told him it was because he was too drunk to drive himself home. Drunk and confused, Richie had agreed.

Richie snored softly. Smiling at him sadly, Fiona hoped he would sleep well. Tomorrow was likely to be very hard on the young Immortal. Duncan walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her. She reached up behind her and touched his face. Having him close was always comforting.

"You'll have to talk to him tomorrow, Duncan."

He kissed her ear.

"He'll be okay. Hung over, but okay."

Fiona shook her head. Duncan let go of her when she moved away from him. Following her across the loft to his bed, he sat down next to her.

"You know it's not that simple, Duncan."

Duncan looked down at his hands. Fiona was right. Richie would be in a great deal of emotional pain. Duncan thought about the younger man sleeping on his couch. He didn't feel capable of helping his friend and student. Where could he begin?

"I know."

Fiona put her arm around his neck. When he looked at her, she leaned over and kissed him. He slipped his arms around her pulling her closer to him.

"He'll need both of us, Duncan. I can't do this alone," she whispered.

"I know something else you can't do alone."

MacLeod nibbled her earlobe. Fiona giggled.

"Yes, I can, but it's not as much fun."

MacLeod buried his face in her neck to muffle his laughter. She still had a bawdy sense of humor. When he composed himself, he kissed her deeply.

"Duncan."

"I know," he whispered. "Richie."

He turned and looked back at the man asleep on his couch. He had unlimited time to be with Fiona. Richie's world had collapsed.

Richie stared at the ceiling. He frowned momentarily. It wasn't the ceiling in his bedroom. Richie sat up. He was in Mac's loft. As the events of the previous day came back to him, Richie groaned.

"Are you okay, Richie?"

Richie turned his back on Fiona. He wanted nothing to do with the Immortal woman.

"Duncan went out for orange juice. He should be back soon."

Richie shook his head. After killing a woman he loved, all Fiona could think about was orange juice.

"Why'd you do it, Fiona? Why'd you kill Lauren? I thought you didn't hurt mortals."

Fiona understood the anger in Richie's voice. She also understood it wasn't completely directed at her. Richie had to vaguely suspect she had a very good reason to kill Lauren. If she suggested that to him, he would deny it. Nothing she could say could make it better.

"I do what I must."

Richie remained silent.

"If there was another option, Richie, don't you think I would have taken it?"

Richie turned towards her quickly. Emotion blazed in his blue eyes.

"What makes you so smart, Fiona?" Richie asked sarcastically. "How could you possibly know Lauren was involved?"

Richie turned his back on her again. Fiona shook her head. He had been losing badly. If she hadn't killed Lauren, Richie would have lost his head. Her turn would have been next. After that, Duncan and Connor would have been challenged by Antonio. As far as she was concerned, she had no choice if those she cared about were to survive.

Fiona sighed deeply. She sensed another Immortal. Duncan was back. The elevator started its journey up to the loft.

"I saw it in a dream, Richie."

The elevator gate rolled up. Duncan stepped off carrying a bag of groceries. He could tell from Fiona's expression that things were not going well with Richie. He hoped he would be back before Richie awoke and confronted the Immortal woman. MacLeod smiled at Fiona.

"I invited Joe for breakfast. I hope you don't mind."

Fiona returned Duncan's smile. He was up to something. She wasn't certain what it was, but it was no accident that he had invited Joe to the loft.

"Of course not, Duncan."

Richie stood up angrily. He really didn't understand why he had ever thought these people cared about him. They were the same people who hadn't told him someone was after him. After murdering his girlfriend because of a dream, they were calmly discussing having company for breakfast.

"You saw it in a dream?"

Before Fiona could respond, Duncan stepped between them.

"Sit down, Richie."

Richie glared angrily at his mentor. MacLeod calmly told the younger man to sit down. He repeated the request until Richie did as he was told. MacLeod then turned his attention to the Immortal woman behind him.

"Fiona, go downstairs and wait for Joe."

"Duncan, I -- "

"Please, Fiona, I don't want to keep Joe waiting."

Fiona knew he expected to be obeyed. He had spoken as Chieftain. Duncan didn't do that very often. Fiona quickly got into the elevator and started it down to the dojo to wait for Joe Dawson. As she descended, she watched Duncan sit down next to Richie.

"She killed Lauren because of a dream. How could she do that, Mac?"

"Fiona was protecting you."

Frustrated, Richie jumped up and began pacing around the loft. Mac had always told him never to hurt or kill a mortal unless it couldn't be avoided. He couldn't believe the same man was defending Fiona.

"No, Mac. Fiona killed the woman I loved."

Duncan stared at the floor. He knew this wasn't going to be easy. The situation was far more complex than Richie suspected. The explanation could be worse for the younger man than the events. Frowning, the Highlander simply shook his head. There was no stopping now. The elevator was on its way up from the dojo. Richie was about to hear the entire truth.

The elevator gate rose noisily. Fiona stepped off followed by Joe Dawson. Although MacLeod doubted Joe had told her anything, he thought Fiona looked uneasy. MacLeod recognized the folder the Watcher held. This was about to get even more painful for everyone involved.

Richie watched suspiciously as Joe came towards him. Fiona seemed to be following the Watcher hesitantly. Joe started to hand a folder to Richie. Richie could see it was part of the Watcher records. He couldn't imagine why Joe would want him to see any part of the Watcher Chronicles.

When Joe offered the folder to Richie, Fiona tried to intercept it. She'd rather Richie hated her than be hurt any more. He needed to heal before confronting the reality of the situation.

"No, Joe. Don't."

Angry, Richie snatched the folder from the mortal's hand. Fiona didn't seem to know how to mind her own business. The first thing he saw when he opened it was a picture of Antonio and Lauren. The short paragraph beneath it let Richie know that the beautiful mortal woman had tried to deliver his Quickening to her husband. Flipping through the file, Richie read the contents quickly. In contrast to the story she had told him of foster care and abuse, the Watcher file indicated that Lauren came from a comfortable background. Her mother and father were both doctors. Richie winced. Her father was a clinical psychologist. Lauren had mentioned to Richie that she was majoring in psychology. She had been using him, but not in the way he had expected. With the enormity of her lies and his own gullibility dawning on him, Richie was clearly devastated as he sat down next to his mentor again.

"Lauren set you up, Richie. Antonio was her husband," Joe said.

Duncan found himself wishing the younger man would say something. Finally, Richie sighed deeply.

"This can't be right. She cared for me," he argued weakly.

MacLeod squeezed his friend's shoulder.

"In a way, I'm sure she did."

Richie looked at him with such pain in his eyes that MacLeod wished Joe and Fiona weren't there to witness it. He heard Fiona softly offer Joe coffee. They crossed the loft into the kitchen area giving MacLeod the privacy he now wanted.

"I thought she loved me, Mac. I thought she just needed some time. I --"

The younger man's voice trailed off.

"I know, Richie."

Richie thought his mentor appeared to be in as much pain as he was.

"You've been there," Richie said uncertainly.

MacLeod nodded glumly. Because of a beautiful mortal woman, he'd nearly lost everything except his head. He glanced at Richie. He didn't know which kind of betrayal was worse.

He'd been living with Connor when he met one of the most beautiful women he had ever seen. Flattered that she would even look at him, he had bought her whatever she desired. While the infatuation developed, Fiona had joined the two men. He vaguely remembered her being uncharacteristically withdrawn, but he was far too interested in the enchanting mortal to pay attention to the Immortal woman he had known all his life. Quietly watching him woo the other woman, Fiona had spent much of her time with Connor. The elder Highlander seemed concerned about her for some reason. He showered the Immortal woman with small gifts and introduced her as their cousin. Duncan had been too preoccupied to find out the reason for his kinsman's behavior.

MacLeod frowned. The woman's plan to drain him financially had been thwarted by Fiona who managed to drive the other woman away. Like Richie, he had been terribly angry with the Immortal woman at the time because it seemed she had needlessly separated him from a woman he desired. Even though Connor had explained Fiona's actions to him, Duncan had refused to speak to her for weeks afterwards. Exasperated, Connor had finally pinned him to a wall during a training session and told him that the Immortal woman had been deeply wounded by the actions of her mortal lover. Fiona had ended that relationship shortly before seeking the company of the Highlanders. Despite his behavior and her own pain, Fiona treated him as she always did. Eventually, he had come to the realization that he was never far from Fiona's affection. The same was true of Amanda. The Immortal thief loved him in her own unique way. Both women certainly had a special place in his life.

"I needed her, Mac. I needed . . . someone."

MacLeod shook his head. He knew the feeling. Immortality could sometimes cause an overwhelming sense of loneliness. The isolation occasionally made him plunge headlong into a relationship for all the wrong reasons. It always ended badly like his flirtation with the charming mortal woman and Fiona's dalliance with a charismatic man. The whole scenario with Lauren was the worst such situation the elder man could remember. Richie needed someone who would never have the slightest thought of betraying him. Someone who would accept him for who and what he was. Someone who could be trusted. MacLeod gazed at the woman across the loft. Someone like Fiona.

"Richie," MacLeod said slowly, "forever is a long time, but wanting someone to love you is not the same as being loved."

When Richie looked at him, MacLeod could still see pain in the younger man's eyes, but he thought he detected a vague glimmer of understanding. Richie needed time to heal. Time to make sense of recent events.

Richie lowered his head and sat staring at the floor. All his efforts to gain Lauren's love had only allowed him to be beguiled. It wasn't the first time he'd been abandoned or betrayed by someone he thought cared about him. Perhaps he was simply unlovable. The succession of foster homes and orphanages he experienced as a child must have meant something. Maybe it was time for him to move on again. Sometimes distance made it easier to forget. Sometimes.

"Are you hungry, Richie?"

Duncan looked up at Fiona. Leaving Joe in the kitchen, she had crossed the loft and stood in front of the two men. Her concern for the younger man was clear on her face as well as in her voice. Food was merely an indirect way for her to express it. She smiled slightly when MacLeod took her hand. Duncan squeezed it affectionately. After a pause, Richie shook his head.

"Do you want to get away by yourself for a while? You can go to my house on Holy Ground."

There was another pause before Richie shook his head again.

"If you want to leave the country, I can get in touch with Connor. I'm sure he'd be glad to have you join him. It might take me a day or two to find him and arrange it."

Richie finally lifted his gaze from the floor and looked at Fiona.

"I . . . I . . .I think I'd rather stay with you and Mac."

The words he had just uttered hit Richie like a good right cross. The people in this room were the only ones who did care about him. By putting his faith in Lauren, he had nearly denied the connection he had to Fiona and Mac. Because of them, he was connected to Connor in a way that the elder MacLeod accepted. In some way that Richie didn't understand, Fiona was right when she called the three men her Clan. Richie smiled slightly. Even the wily vixen Amanda had a sense of affection and loyalty that extended from Mac to him. Richie glanced at Joe. Mac's Watcher cared enough to try to help him on more than one occasion. He was fortunate to finally have friends he could consider his family.

"There's something else you need to know, Richie."

Richie watched Joe make his way across to the couch. He didn't know if he could stand to hear any more of the Watcher's information.

"Seems Antonio had a plan. First, he'd kill you, then he'd go after Fiona."

"Then Mac and Connor," Richie said slowly, looking over at Mac for confirmation. Mac nodded.

Although the implications were overwhelming, the weird conversations in the dojo finally made sense to Richie. He was still uncertain about the identity of the Immortal woman who had visited the dojo, but even her presence seemed to fit now. Antonio was the Immortal Fiona had put off warning him about. Killing Lauren was the only way Fiona could end the Immortal battle without interfering. If Fiona believed the MacLeods were at risk, she would do what was necessary to protect the men she considered her Clan. Richie frowned. Although she readily included him in that Clan, he had doubted her motives and her reasoning. He wondered what he had done to be worthy of her confidence. He knew he would have to work at getting over Lauren and her betrayal of his feelings for her. It helped to think that Fiona and Mac loved him.

Letting go of Duncan's hand, Fiona perched next to Richie on the couch. Richie turned to look at her. There was still a great deal of pain in his blue eyes. She stroked his hair. She was pleased that he didn't pull away.

"You really did know, didn't you, Fiona?"

Fiona nodded. Sometimes she wished she didn't know such things. She was certain her abilities had manifested themselves when she was still a child. She didn't remember a time she wasn't aware of things she had no explicable way of knowing. She did her best to hide them most of the time, but Duncan was usually so easy for her to read and he was her closest friend, she didn't keep it a secret from him. Fiona sighed. She couldn't keep the knowledge from coming. This time she had recurring dreams which warned her of impending danger. If she hadn't known in advance, the results could have been disastrous. Although she didn't want to die, her own death was meaningless compared to the lives of three men she cared about more than she could say. Two of those men were here. The other was elsewhere, but she could find him if she needed him.

Regretting the action she had been forced to take, Fiona sighed deeply. She deplored having to take a mortal's life, but she would do it again to protect those important to her. Fiona looked at Duncan and Richie. While Richie's face reflected the sorrow and pain he felt, Duncan smiled at her affectionately. Fiona nodded. As unfortunate as it was, her decision had been correct. Like her knowledge of the unknowable, her love for these men could not be denied.